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With over three decades of experience in the food and beverage industry, Deepak Bhatia, CEO of Infinity Holding, has firmly established himself as one of the most influential and innovative leaders in the sector. His career has spanned continents, from his early days in India to his current role leading the charge in Dubai. Throughout his journey, Bhatia has been a catalyst for change, pioneering new dining experiences, launching iconic global brands, and transforming local culinary landscapes. Today, as the driving force behind Infinity Holding, Bhatia continues to set new benchmarks for excellence in the hospitality industry.
A Journey Fuelled by Passion and Vision
Deepak Bhatia’s love affair with food began long before his professional career. As a child, he dreamt of becoming a chef, often experimenting in the kitchen and developing a deep appreciation for the art of cooking. “Food was always my first love,” Bhatia recalls, reflecting on his early passion. But his journey took a unique turn when he chose hotel management over a career in drama, despite being accepted into the prestigious National School of Drama. This decision, while unexpected, would shape his future in remarkable ways. While still studying, Bhatia became a part of the team that launched McDonald’s first-ever outlet in India, a milestone moment that changed the fast food scene in the country. “Opening McDonald’s in India was a game-changer,” he says. “It taught me everything from operational efficiency to brand management and customer engagement. It was a defining moment for me.”
A Leader Who Redefined Hospitality
Bhatia’s career quickly gained momentum as he moved through senior roles with several prominent hospitality brands, including Oberoi Maidens, Noodles, and Ruby Tuesday. However, it was his work with Ruby Tuesday that truly cemented his reputation as an industry innovator. As the culinary head for Ruby Tuesday in India, Bhatia designed the brand’s first base kitchen in the country and played an instrumental role in expanding its presence across India. His ability to merge operational excellence with a passion for culinary quality made him a key figure in the company’s growth. Bhatia’s entrepreneurial spirit also flourished in his later roles with Light Bite Foods, a joint venture with Dabur, and Punjab Grill, where he led the brand’s expansion across India, overseeing the launch of several successful outlets. His remarkable ability to scale operations while maintaining the highest standards of quality has earned him a well-deserved reputation as one of India’s most respected leaders in the food industry.
People-Centric Leadership Philosophy
Bhatia believes that the foundation of any successful business lies in its people. “A company’s success is built on the strength of its team,” he says. His leadership approach is deeply rooted in trust, transparency, and continuous improvement. He is a strong advocate for open communication, ensuring that feedback flows in both directions—encouraging team members to voice their ideas while also providing constructive feedback to help them grow. This commitment to transparent and supportive leadership has been critical in building high-performing teams across the brands he has worked with. For Bhatia, the key to success lies not just in strategy and innovation, but in creating a culture where every individual is motivated, valued, and aligned with the company’s mission.
Adapting to the Digital Future
In today’s fast-evolving world, Bhatia is also focused on adapting his strategies to the digital age. He recognizes that in order to stay ahead, brands must leverage social media and digital marketing to build strong, lasting connections with consumers. “In today’s world, your brand’s digital presence is just as important as its physical presence,” Bhatia asserts. His focus on digital strategies ensures that the brands under his leadership are not only visible but also relevant in the modern marketplace. By staying engaged with customers online, Bhatia continues to keep his brands at the forefront of industry trends. As he looks toward the future, he is determined to maintain his commitment to exceptional customer experiences while continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of consumers.
Legacy of Innovation and Impact
Deepak Bhatia’s career is a remarkable journey of transformation, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. From launching McDonald’s in India to leading the expansion of top brands like Ruby Tuesday, Punjab Grill, and Light Bite Foods, Bhatia has had a profound impact on the food and beverage industry. His ability to scale operations, his people-centric leadership style, and his passion for creating memorable dining experiences have set him apart as a true visionary in the field. Today, as the CEO of Infinity Holding, Bhatia continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of food and beverage leaders, ensuring his legacy will be one of lasting impact and continued success.
Discover the secrets to success and connect with Deepak Bhatia on LinkedIn for a closer look at his entrepreneurial journey and insights.